Every child, whether learning to walk or applying to college, longs for a parent’s love and the promise of security, no matter what may come in the future. Yet parents often find it difficult to fully articulate the extent of their unconditional love.
Billboard-charting singer-songwriter, podcaster, and mother of two JJ Heller gives language to everything a parent feels, hopes, and dreams for their child in her heartwarming read-aloud picture book HAND TO HOLD (7/20/21, WaterBrook). Illustrated by Alyssa Petersen and expanding on the lyrics of Heller’s beloved lullaby “Hand to Hold” (10 million streams and 875k YouTube views), this tender and memorable story is an opportunity for parents to bless their children and reassure them of their boundless love and God’s faithful presence.
Fans of Heller’s contemporary lullabies and other young families will delight in snuggling up together with this sweet bedtime read. As they close out their nighttime routines, little hearts will be anchored in the promise that their parents’ love will hold steady through every season of life.
Heller writes, “If you’re anything like me, you might have a hard time telling your children exactly how you feel about them, and that’s why I wrote this book. It gives language to our love.”
Heller is available for interviews and can speak about:
- the inspiration behind the song “Hand to Hold” and turning it into a book
- tips for loving and supporting your kids well (e.g., prayer, empathy, listening, guidance)
- the tension of parenting—equipping and letting go as little ones grow into adults
- how writers can give language to thoughts and emotions that are often hard to express
- embracing and finding inspiration in your child’s sense of wonder
- her musical journey; how the road blocks helped her find her voice
- the millions of listeners who have resonated with her songwriting, including foster and adoptive families and families who have children with disabilities
- how a reality show contestant catapulted her into the public eye
For more information, visit www.waterbrookmultnomah.com.